Scheduling Apps

If you batch create your content in advance you can also schedule your posts. This means they will post automatically at the time you select (optimal posting). There are free trials for lots of the platforms and the basic plans aren’t usually too expensive either. Apps include: 

Hootsuite

• Considered the all-in-one tool for posting, monitoring, analytics etc. It also allows links to blogging platforms
• Free plan for 3 profiles with 30 scheduled posts however paid plans allow more. Much more cost effective to pay annually rather than a monthly plan
• Engagement and re-sharing can be managed directly through Hootsuite. It even has the inboxes linked.
• Has guides/educational resources e.g. Hootsuite Academy
• Gives a calendar view for posting

Later

• Focused on media based content so best for Instagram and Pinterest
• Paid plan allows story scheduling, comment management, location tags & multi photo posts
• Has a ‘Quick Schedule’ element to drag & drop
• Creating posts begins with the image upload rather than the writing. Other platforms tend to begin writing first

Buffer

• There are three apps within Buffer. Buffer publish for creating & publishing. Buffer reply used for engagement. Buffer analyze is still in development but will be for analytics.
• User friendly with intuitive characteristics. 
• No social listening to see trending topics etc.
• Only includes Pinterest for the paid plans

Facebook Creator Studio

• Free with no membership tiers but only for Facebook & Instagram
• Can manage from a PC but not stories
• Allows insights alongside a streamlined inbox for messages etc
• Includes a rights manager feature for your photos
• Can schedule all types of content except Reels and stories.

Social Pilot

• You need to pay extra for inboxing and comment management

• Cleaner look than Hootsuite and intuitive
• First login gives an in depth tutorial